2026 Summer Travel Guide: SFO to China Flights, Zipair "Hacks," and the New 10-Day Visa-Free Transit

The 2026 Summer Travel Booking Window: Direct vs. Smart Connections

As we enter February 2026, the "Golden Booking Window" has opened for Bay Area families planning summer travel (June–August) to Asia or Europe.

While direct flights between the US and China have recovered to about 60% of 2019 levels, prices remain stubbornly high. Meanwhile, connecting flights via Japan, South Korea, and Taiwan have become the smart choice for 2026 due to cost efficiency and smooth transit experiences. Even more exciting is the new "240-Hour (10-Day) Transit Visa-Exemption" policy at select Chinese ports, offering a massive convenience for US passport holders.

This guide breaks down three money-saving strategies for your 2026 summer travel.

Chapter 1: Flight Reality — Direct vs. Connecting

1.1 SFO Direct Flights: The "Convenience Premium"

• United (UA888 SFO-PEK / UA857 SFO-PVG): Restored to daily service in 2026.

  • Pros: The best choice for elderly parents; no layover hassles.

  • Cons: Prices are high. Economy round-trip tickets for summer often range from $2,200 to $2,800.

• Air China (CA986 SFO-PEK): As a main carrier, Air China has added Wednesday and Saturday frequencies in 2026.

  • Note: Some flights still require a technical stop in LAX or SEA. Always check for the "Non-stop" label when booking.

1.2 The Connecting Kings: EVA & ANA

• EVA Air: The favorite for Bay Area families. Connecting via Taipei (TPE) is incredibly smooth.

  • Why: Superior service, culturally familiar food, and efficient transfer security. Summer fares usually hover around $1,500 - $1,800.

• ANA / JAL: Connecting via Tokyo (NRT/HND).

  • Why: Perfect for a "Stopover." With the Yen rate remaining favorable in 2026, buying skincare and sake at Narita Duty-Free is a steal.

Chapter 2: The Budget "Hack" — Zipair + Split Tickets

If you are on a tight budget (e.g., students or solo travelers), the hottest trend in 2026 is flying out of San Jose (SJC).

2.1 Zipair SJC-NRT

• The Strategy: Zipair, a low-cost subsidiary of JAL, flies direct from SJC to Tokyo Narita (NRT).

  • Price: Summer round-trip economy is often $800 - $1,000 (including bags). Their "Full-Flat" business class is often under $2,500—an unbeatable value.

• The Connection: Once in Narita, buy a separate ticket on Spring Airlines or Juneyao Air to Chinese cities (Shanghai/Fuzhou/Nanjing) for just $200-$300 round-trip.

• Total Cost: $1,100 - $1,300 for a round trip to China—saving 50% compared to direct flights!

• Risk Warning: These are separate tickets. If Zipair is delayed, you lose the second ticket. Always schedule a 1-2 day buffer in Tokyo to be safe.

Chapter 3: Visa Wins — 10-Day Transit & Japan E-Visa

3.1 2026 Major Update: China 240-Hour Visa-Free Transit

As of late 2025, China has upgraded the "144-hour (6-day)" transit policy to "240-hour (10-day)" at key hubs like Guangzhou, Shenzhen, and Beijing.

• Eligibility: US passport holders with a confirmed connecting ticket to a third country (e.g., USA -> China -> Korea/Hong Kong).

• The Play: You can visit family for a full 10 days without applying for a Chinese visa. This is a game-changer for ABC families making short visits.

3.2 Japan E-Visa Fully Open

Starting late 2025, Japan fully opened its e-Visa system to Chinese passport holders (Green Card/H1B) living in the US.

• Convenience: No more lining up at the SF Consulate! Apply online and show a QR code at immigration. This makes the "SFO-Tokyo (3-day play)-China" itinerary incredibly smooth.

Chapter 4: Europe Alert — The Schengen Nightmare

If you plan to visit Europe this summer (post-Paris Olympics hype), be warned: Schengen Visa appointments in SF are scarce.

• Status: Appointments for Italian, French, and Spanish consulates for Summer 2026 are already nearly gone as of February.

• Strategy:

  • Refresh: Check for cancellations daily between 3 PM - 4 PM Pacific Time.

  • VFS Global: Try booking through VFS-managed countries like Norway or Portugal, which often have more slots, and plan your entry through there.

2026 Summer Travel Guide

For Summer 2026 travel, "Early" is the core rule, and "Smart" is the key. Direct flyers must book by late February. Transfer travelers can save thousands by utilizing Zipair and the new Japan e-Visa. Whichever path you choose, the road home in 2026 is wider and more accessible than before.